Welcome to Zurich

The flight to Zurich was surprisingly calm. After the chaos of the morning, it felt like fate was giving us a break. While Olivia busied herself planning our impromptu adventure in Zurich, Lindsay and I found a way to relax: we started watching The Big Bang Theory on the plane's screen.

We sat together, and without thinking too much about it, she snuggled up next to me. She didn't say anything, but her closeness said it all. We laughed at Sheldon and Leonard's antics, and for a moment, I forgot that we were on a plane heading to a city none of us had planned to visit.

"You know?" Lindsay said between laughs as we watched Howard try to impress Bernadette. "This is much more fun than running around the airport like crazy people."

"Definitely," I replied, smiling. "Though I'm not sure if we'll ever get over the disaster of today."

She glanced at me briefly, with a warm smile.

"At least we're together. That makes anything better."

Meanwhile, Olivia was absorbed in her tablet, scribbling something with enthusiasm. When the episode ended, she turned to us with a triumphant expression.

"Done!" she announced, showing us her list. "Here are all the things we need to do in Zurich. I've researched everything to make the most of this unplanned trip."

She handed us the list, and we both began reading it curiously.

Olivia's List: Things to Do in Zurich

1. Explore the Old Town (Altstadt): Cobblestone streets, historic shops, and medieval architecture.

2. Visit Lake Zurich: Perfect for walking, taking photos, or even going on a boat ride.

3. Climb Uetliberg: A mountain near the city with incredible panoramic views.

4. Go to Kunsthaus Zürich: One of Europe's most important art museums.

5. Try authentic Swiss chocolate: It's mandatory, according to Olivia.

6. Shop on Bahnhofstrasse: The famous luxury shopping street.

7. Visit Lindenhof: A historic park with stunning views of the Limmat River.

8. Enjoy the nightlife in Niederdorf: Bars and restaurants with a vibrant atmosphere.

"This seems… pretty complete," I said, impressed. "How do you know all this?"

"The internet is magical, Sack," Olivia responded dramatically. "Besides, you always have to be prepared. You never know when you'll find yourself in Zurich unplanned."

Lindsay smiled as she handed the list back.

"Well, it looks like we'll have a busy itinerary. Thanks, Olivia."

"You're welcome," she replied, crossing her arms. "Just make sure you can keep up with me."

When we landed in Zurich, the cold greeted us immediately. The airport was modern and efficient, but soon we realized a problem: our hotel reservations were in Prague, not Zurich.

"Oh, great," Olivia muttered, pulling out her phone. "Don't worry. I've got this covered."

"What are you going to do?" Lindsay asked, intrigued.

Olivia simply smiled as she dialed a number. After a few minutes of quick conversation in English, she hung up and looked at us with a triumphant grin.

"Done. We'll stay at the Badrutt's Palace Hotel. It's one of the most luxurious hotels in Switzerland."

"How did you manage that?" I asked, incredulous.

"Let's just say owning a hotel chain in the U.S. has its perks," Olivia replied, shrugging. "Plus, they have connections with some of the best hotels in Europe."

"Impressive," Lindsay said, smiling. "I guess we owe you one this time, Olivia."

"Don't forget it," she responded with a mischievous smile. "Now, we need a taxi."

As we exited the airport, Olivia approached the first taxi driver she saw and began speaking fluent German.

"Ich möchte zum Badrutt's Palace Hotel, bitte," she said confidently.

Lindsay and I exchanged a surprised glance.

"Since when do you speak German?" I asked.

Olivia shrugged as we climbed into the taxi.

"I learned when I was a kid. My family wanted me to know several languages, though I did it kicking and screaming. But here I am, saving the day."

"We only know 'hallo' and 'danke,'" Lindsay said, laughing. "I think we're officially depending on you for communication."

"Don't worry," Olivia replied with a smile. "I'm here to guide you."

The ride to the hotel was breathtaking. Zurich was a perfect blend of history and modernity, with clean streets, elegant buildings, and lake views that took our breath away.

When we arrived at the Badrutt's Palace Hotel, we were speechless. It was a majestic place, with classic architecture and luxurious details everywhere. The lobby was spacious and welcoming, with elegant furniture and attentive staff who greeted us courteously.

"Welcome to Badrutt's Palace," the receptionist said as he checked our reservations. "You have a family suite reserved."

"A family suite?" I asked, surprised.

"Yes," Olivia replied, winking at us. "I thought it would be better to have enough space for everyone."

The room was incredible. Spacious and bright, it had a living room, several comfortable beds, and an impressive view of the city.

"This is… amazing," Lindsay said, dropping her suitcase on the floor. "I never thought we'd end up in a place like this."

"I know, right?" Olivia responded, flopping onto one of the armchairs. "Sometimes ruined plans can lead you to unexpectedly wonderful places."

I walked over to the window and gazed at the view as Lindsay joined me.

"This is something we'll never forget," I said quietly.

"You're right," she replied, smiling. "And the best part is that we're here together."

Olivia interrupted from the armchair.

"Well, guys, enjoy the moment, but remember that we're starting early tomorrow. We have a lot to explore."

After settling in, we decided to order dinner. Olivia called room service and ordered traditional Swiss dishes so we could try local cuisine.

"I hope you like cheese," Olivia said as she hung up the phone. "I ordered fondue and raclette, two Swiss specialties. I also got some hot chocolate because, well, we're in Switzerland."

"Fondue and raclette sound delicious," Lindsay said excitedly. "I've always wanted to try them."

"I hope it's not too heavy," I commented, though I couldn't help but smile at the idea of trying something new.

When dinner arrived, we sat in the suite's living room. The aroma of melted cheese filled the air, and it quickly became clear that Olivia had made an excellent choice.

"This is incredible," Lindsay said after tasting a bite of fondue. "The cheese is so creamy."

"And the raclette is perfect with these tiny potatoes," Olivia added, pointing to her plate proudly. "I told you you'd love it."

As we ate, we chatted about what we'd do the next day.

"I think we should start with the Old Town," I suggested. "It seems like a good place to get to know the city."

"And then we can go to the lake," Lindsay added. "I'd love to take some pictures there."

"Perfect," Olivia responded, raising her cup of hot chocolate. "To an unforgettable adventure in Zurich."

We toasted, feeling how this unplanned trip was already becoming something special.